Air fryers are a great kitchen appliance that can cook food to perfection with little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. However, like any other kitchen appliance, air fryers need to be cleaned regularly to maintain their performance and ensure that they are safe to use. In this article, we will go over step-by-step instructions on how to clean an air fryer.
Step 1: Unplug the Air Fryer
Before you start cleaning your air fryer, it's essential to make sure that it's unplugged from the power source and has cooled down completely. This step is crucial to prevent any accidents or injuries from happening during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Remove & Soak the Basket and Pan
Next, you will need to remove the basket and pan from the air fryer. Most air fryers have a button that you can press to release the basket from the air fryer. Once you have removed the basket and pan, you can start cleaning them separately. Fill your sink with warm, soapy water and soak the basket and pan for about 10-15 minutes. This step will help to loosen any food residue or grease that may be stuck to the basket and pan.
Step 4: Scrub the Basket and Pan
After soaking the basket and pan, use a soft sponge or brush to scrub away any remaining food residue or grease. Be gentle when scrubbing, as you don't want to scratch the non-stick coating.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Basket and Pan
After scrubbing the basket and pan, rinse them with warm water to remove any soap residue. Then, use a clean towel to dry them thoroughly. Make sure that they are completely dry before putting them back into the air fryer.
Step 6: Clean the Interior of the Air Fryer
To clean the interior of the air fryer, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any food residue or grease. If there are any stubborn stains or burnt-on food, you can use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub them away gently.
Step 7: Clean the Heating Element
The heating element is an essential part of the air fryer, and it's crucial to keep it clean to maintain its performance. To clean the heating element, use a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on it.
Step 8: Reassemble the Air Fryer
Once you have cleaned all the components of the air fryer, you can reassemble it. Make sure that the basket and pan are in the correct position and that all the parts are securely in place.
If you are struggling to clean out stubborn stains - we have you covered with some life hacks that will help you get your air fryer back to its former shiny state.
-
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution: If your air fryer has stubborn stains, you can make a cleaning solution using baking soda and vinegar. Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar to make a paste, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.
-
Use a Toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush is an excellent tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas of your air fryer. You can use it to clean the heating element, the fan, and the small crevices inside the air fryer.
-
Use Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is an excellent natural cleaner that can help remove stubborn stains and odors. Cut a lemon in half, squeeze the juice onto a sponge or cloth, and use it to clean the air fryer's interior.
-
Use a Microfiber Cloth: A microfiber cloth is a gentle yet effective cleaning tool that can be used to clean the air fryer's interior and exterior surfaces without scratching them.
-
Use Dish Soap and Warm Water: Regular dish soap and warm water are effective in cleaning the air fryer's basket and pan. Soak them in warm, soapy water for about 15-20 minutes before scrubbing them clean.
In conclusion, cleaning your air fryer is an essential step to ensure that it's working correctly and safely. With the step-by-step instructions outlined in this article, you should be able to clean your air fryer with ease. Remember to clean your air fryer regularly to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan.
